Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise — A Complete Guide

This highly-rated cruise from Kissamos offers a luxurious way to explore two of Crete’s most iconic spots: Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. With a 4.9-star rating and over 280 reviews, this tour promises a semi-private, comfortable experience that combines stunning scenery, delicious food, and plenty of water-based fun.

What sets this cruise apart is the thoughtful balance between adventure and relaxation. From the attentive crew to the elegant catamaran, you feel cared for without feeling rushed. One of our favorite aspects? The fact that it avoids the crowds that often flock to these popular destinations — meaning you get more space and serenity.

However, a consideration worth noting is the tour’s duration—at 7.5 hours, it’s a full day out, which might be long for very young children or less mobile travelers. That said, it suits those who love a blend of scenery, good food, and water activities in a more exclusive setting. Perfect for couples, families, or groups seeking a laid-back yet upscale day on the water.

Key Points

• Luxurious, semi-private experience with fewer crowds than typical ferry or large-group tours
• Stunning stops at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island with ample time for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing
• Gourmet Mediterranean lunch and unlimited drinks including wine, beer, and soft drinks onboard
• Water activities and fun extras like paddleboards, inflatable flamingo, and snorkeling gear
• Expert crew led by knowledgeable guides who prioritize safety and guest enjoyment
• Flexible and family-friendly, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available upon request

The Experience: What You Can Expect

We loved how this cruise offers a well-rounded day on the water, making it ideal for those who want to see Crete’s highlights without the hassle of crowded ferries or long drives. From the moment you step aboard the luxury catamaran, you’re greeted by a friendly crew wearing DanEri T-shirts, easily identifiable by the bright red DanEri flag. Expect a warm welcome with coffee, tea, and local pies, setting the tone for a day of comfort and beauty.

What’s great about this cruise is the smaller group size, typically around 16 guests, which adds to the feeling of exclusivity. Many reviewers mention how attentive and helpful the crew is. Dimitri, Giovanni (the captain), Jessica, and Yani (the crew members) earn high praise for their kindness, knowledge, and ability to cater to guests’ needs — from ensuring glasses are never empty to helping with water activities.

The itinerary is thoughtfully planned to avoid the crowds that often overwhelm popular sites. You start with a scenic 1.5-hour sail to Balos Lagoon, known for its turquoise waters and soft sands. The boat docks for about two hours, giving everyone enough time to swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or simply bask in the sun. Reviewers highlight how arriving early means having Balos almost to yourself, before large ferries arrive.

Next, a short sail takes you to Gramvousa Island, where you can explore the island’s rugged beauty, hike to the castle, or relax on the deck. Lunch is served mid-visit—a Mediterranean feast of fresh seafood, salads, and homemade desserts, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available on request. Many guests note that Jessica’s cooking is a standout, with some describing the meal as one of the best on their trip.

You’ll return to Kissamos after about 1.5 hours of enjoying Gramvousa, sailing back with plenty of opportunities to take photos, share laughs, or unwind with music and onboard WiFi.

The Stops in Detail

Balos Lagoon: This stretch of shallow, crystal-clear waters and soft sands is often called a paradise. On the boat, you’ll find inflatable flamingos, snorkeling gear, and paddleboards. The reviews rave about the pristine condition of the waters and how peaceful it feels when arrived early. Benjamin described it as a “spectacular experience,” emphasizing that the guides are exceptional in timing the stop to avoid the crowds.

Gramvousa Island: Rich in history, with a Venetian castle offering panoramic views, Gramvousa is more than just a pretty face. Guests can hike, explore the fortress, or relax on the deck. Some reviews mention how crew members like Giovanni and Dimitri are genuinely helpful, aiding with towels or even rowing guests to the shore if they prefer to stay dry. The snorkeling around the island is described as lively, with many guests catching interesting fish and enjoying the calm waters.

The onboard lunch: Jessica’s cooking earns high praise, with reviews describing the meals as “delicious,” “beautifully presented,” and “gourmet,” with plenty of seafood, fresh salads, and homemade desserts. The inclusion of unlimited drinks—wine, beer, soft drinks—means you can toast your day while taking in the scenery.

Water Activities and Extras

The cruise isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about fun. Paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and inflatables make it easy to get active. Reviewers mention how the inflatable flamingo was a hit for photos, and many appreciated the chance to snorkel in clear waters that teemed with marine life.

The crew also provides fishing gear, and several guests enjoyed trying to catch fish, adding a playful element to the day. There’s a box of toys for kids, making this a family-friendly option.

Practical Details

The cruise lasts 7.5 hours, starting in the morning, and includes pickup options if you choose the transfer package. The boat departs from Kissamos port, with parking available, and the crew kindly asks guests to arrive 15 minutes early.

Costing around $220 per person, this activity represents excellent value given the inclusions: a luxury catamaran, gourmet meals, drinks, water gear, WiFi, and a smaller, more intimate group. While it doesn’t include entry tickets at Gramvousa Castle, many reviewers found the trip’s overall value more than justified.

The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, although it’s not recommended for pregnant women. Wheelchair access is available, and vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options can be requested ahead of time.

Reviews that Highlight What Matters

Many guests highlight the knowledgeable guides — Jessica, Dimitri, Yani, and Giovanni — as a big part of what makes this experience special. One reviewer mentions how Jessica’s meals exceeded expectations, calling them “outstanding,” while others note how the crew’s attentiveness made everyone feel comfortable and well-cared-for.

The overall feedback consistently praises the stunning scenery, the quality of the food, and the fact that the smaller group means a more relaxed, authentic experience without the crush of crowds. Several reviews mention how much fun they had, with plenty of opportunities to take photos, relax, and enjoy Crete’s natural beauty.

Final Thoughts: Is This Cruise Right for You?

If you’re after a day of luxury, stunning scenery, and excellent food in a more intimate setting, this cruise ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly well-suited for couples, families, or small groups who want to skip the crowds and enjoy the beauty of Balos and Gramvousa at their own pace.

The active water-based options like snorkeling and paddleboarding add a playful touch, while the gourmet meal and unlimited drinks make the day feel special. The professional crew, led by friendly guides, ensures safety and comfort, making this a dependable choice for a memorable Crete adventure.

Keep in mind, the full day might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues, but overall, it’s a well-curated experience that balances exploration and leisure perfectly.

In summary, this cruise offers excellent value, especially considering the luxury amenities, personalized service, and the ability to beat the crowds and enjoy Crete’s best-known spots in style. It’s a fantastic choice for those wishing to combine scenic beauty with comfort and good company.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the price?
No, hotel pickup is not included unless you select the transfer option. The activity starts at Kissamos port, where parking is available.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 7.5 hours, including stops at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a passport or ID. It’s also helpful to wear shoes suitable for hiking if you plan to explore Gramvousa castle.

Are vegetarian or other special meals available?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options can be requested in advance. A kid-friendly meal is also offered.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, with toys and water activities for kids. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

What water activities are included?
Guests can enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, and inflatables like the inflatable flamingo. Snorkeling gear and paddles are provided.

Does the tour include entry tickets at Gramvousa Castle?
No, entry tickets for Gramvousa Castle are not included but can be purchased separately if desired.

What is the group size?
The typical group size is around 16 guests, which helps keep the experience intimate and relaxed.

Can I book this tour as a private group?
Yes, private groups are available, providing a more personalized experience if preferred.

To sum it up, this cruise from Kissamos is an excellent way to see Crete’s highlights in comfort, style, and good company. Whether you’re celebrating, seeking family fun, or simply want to enjoy some of Greece’s most beautiful waters and landscapes, this tour offers a memorable, value-packed day in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.